Automated IT Hardware Node Interchange Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data center automation systems lack compatibility and integration with various IT hardware rack configurations, limiting the efficient and precise positional interchange of IT hardware nodes.
Innovation Solution
A device with a mount and body capable of independent movement, equipped with grippers that can laterally engage and securely lock IT hardware nodes, allowing for precise insertion and withdrawal, and compatible with different node types and configurations through independently controlled actuators and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing automation systems are designed as self-contained modular units, then they can be implemented as stand-alone systems, but they lack compatibility and integration with various IT hardware rack configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic manipulator is designed with a universal interface system that can adapt to multiple rack configurations. The mount attachable to the primary articulator and the body capable of movement in multiple directions provide a flexible platform that can engage with different rack types through programmable motion sequences, allowing one system to perform multiple functions across various data center environments
2Device complexity
If manual monitoring and processing is used, then existing systems can operate with simple mechanisms, but they are not sufficiently agile and repeatable to be effective
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect the presence, position, and status of IT hardware nodes automatically. The control system processes this sensor data and autonomously generates motion commands for the robotic manipulator, enabling the system to self-manage the positional interchange process without human intervention, thereby achieving high agility and repeatability
3Device complexity
If the body is fixed to the mount, then the structure is simpler, but alignment and precision during node insertion and withdrawal are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The body is designed to move independently relative to the mount in a first direction, while the grippers can move laterally in a second direction. This dynamic, multi-degree-of-freedom structure allows the system to achieve precise alignment with rack slots during insertion and withdrawal operations, while maintaining structural simplicity through modular component design
4Device complexity
If grippers are fixed to the body, then the structure is simpler, but secure locking and compatibility with different node types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The grippers are movably attached to the body, enabling lateral movement in a direction perpendicular to the primary motion. This dynamic configuration allows the grippers to adjust their position to securely engage with different node types and configurations, providing reliable locking while maintaining engagement force throughout the insertion and withdrawal process
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and method for the positional interchange of IT hardware nodes at an IT hardware rack. The present apparatus and method is particularly suitable for use with a variety of different IT hardware rack configurations. The present apparatus comprises a mount, a body supported at the mount, grippers movably attached to the body and engagers provided at the grippers configured to enable insertion and/or withdrawal of IT hardware nodes at an IT hardware rack.